Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to understand the basic principles of physics as they relate to nature.

Materials and Prep

• Pen and paper
• Access to a natural outdoor environment (e.g., backyard, nearby park)

No prior knowledge or preparation is necessary.

Activities

1. Observing Natural Phenomena

   Go outside to your chosen natural environment and spend some time observing different phenomena, such as the movement of leaves, the flight of birds, or the flow of water in a stream. Take notes on what you observe and try to identify any patterns or regularities.

2. Exploring Forces in Nature

   Choose one specific natural phenomenon that you observed and think about the forces involved. For example, if you observed the flight of birds, consider the forces of gravity, lift, and air resistance. Write a short paragraph explaining how these forces interact to allow the birds to fly.

3. Creating a Nature-inspired Experiment

   Based on your observations and understanding of forces in nature, design a simple experiment to investigate a specific aspect of a natural phenomenon. For example, you could explore how different wing shapes affect the flight of paper airplanes. Write down your experiment plan, including the materials you will need and the steps you will follow.

4. Conducting the Experiment

   Gather the materials you need and carry out your experiment. Take measurements, record your observations, and draw conclusions based on your findings.

5. Reflecting and Reporting

   Write a short report summarizing your experiment, including your hypothesis, the procedure you followed, your results, and your conclusions. Reflect on what you have learned about the connection between physics and nature.

Seventh Grade Talking Points

• "Physics is the branch of science that deals with the properties and interactions of matter and energy."
• "Nature is full of fascinating phenomena that can be explained using the principles of physics."
• "Forces play a crucial role in shaping and influencing natural phenomena."
• "Gravity is a force that pulls objects towards each other, keeping them grounded on Earth."
• "Lift is the force that allows birds and airplanes to fly by creating an upward push."
• "Air resistance, also known as drag, opposes the motion of objects through the air."
• "By understanding the forces at play in nature, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the world around us."